Method of making a window comprising a liquid-crystal inclusive switchable film that is operable in at least first and second visible transmission modes

ABSTRACT

Certain example embodiments relate to a vehicle window (e.g., sunroof). Side-firing LEDs are provided between first and second substantially parallel substrates and emit light towards central regions of the window. A liquid-crystal inclusive switchable film is provided between the first and second substrates. The liquid crystals are sized such that light received from the LEDs is redirected in a direction substantially normal to major surfaces of the first and second substrates. The switchable film is operable in at least first and second modes, with the window in the first mode having a visible transmission of less than 1%, and with the window in the second mode having a visible transmission of 7-15%. The switchable film and the LEDs are operable independently of one another in connection with the LEDs emitting light and the switchable film controlling visible transmission therethrough.

This application is a division of application Ser. No. 14/466,217, filedAug. 22, 2014, the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporatedherein by reference in this application.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

Certain example embodiments of this invention relate to vehicle sunroofswith switchable glazings and side-firing light emitting diodes (LEDs),and/or methods of making the same. More particularly, certain exampleembodiments of this invention relate to vehicle sunroofs with switchableglazings that help guide light from side-firing LEDs so that such lightis redirected into and helps illuminate the vehicles' cabins (e.g., fordome light type applications), and/or methods of making the same.Certain example embodiments alternatively or additionally may includedirect- or downward-firing LEDs for these and/or other applications.

BACKGROUND AND SUMMARY OF EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

Retractable and/or tilting sunroofs oftentimes are available as optionson certain trucks and automobiles. Such sunroofs oftentimes are heavilytinted and/or otherwise have a low visible transmission, e.g., to blocklight from the sun and/or other overhead light sources from enteringinto the vehicles' cabins. Although the generally low visibletransmission through sunroofs also helps hide vehicle interiors from“prying eyes,” retractable privacy shades also are generally included invehicles equipped with sunroofs. These privacy shades help further blocklight from the sun and/or other overhead light sources from enteringinto the vehicles' cabins.

The inclusion of sunroof privacy shades in vehicles, although helpful inthe above-identified and/or other respects, unfortunately reduces theheadroom available in such vehicles cabins. Furthermore, the presence ofa sunroof itself sometimes presents difficulties when it comes todeciding where to locate an overhead cabin dome light or the like. Thatis, interior cabin lighting features generally cannot be provided on orbelow sunroofs, because the sunroofs retract and/or tilt. Similarly,interior cabin lighting features generally cannot be provided on orbelow privacy shades, as they too retract. Thus, lighting elements maybe moved far forward, far backward, to the sides, and/or the like. Andas vehicle sunroofs become much larger and often include multiplesections, challenges arise with respect to the ability to packagemechanical shades, and the need for such mechanical shades can actuallybecome a barrier to having larger sunroof areas. Sometimes, multiplelighting elements are provided so that more of the cabin can beilluminated, when desired.

Thus, it will be appreciated that it would be desirable to overcomethese and/or other challenges. For instance, it will be appreciated thatit would be desirable to provide vehicle sunroofs and lighting featuresthat work in concert with one another to provide interesting aestheticswithin vehicle cabins.

One aspect of certain example embodiments relates to the combination ofa switchable film (e.g., a polymer dispersed liquid crystal (PDLC) filmor the like) and a circuit containing light emitting diodes (LEDs) inthe same glass lamination. In certain example embodiments, the LEDs areside-firing LEDs that couple with the switchable film and create anambient light source, whereas the switchable film provides variabletransmission through the laminated product. In certain exampleembodiments, the LEDs and the switchable film may be used independentlyof one another for different purposes.

Another aspect of certain example embodiments relates to combiningembedded LEDs (e.g., side-firing LEDs) and a switchable film into onesystem that uses the switchable film as a beam-steering element in alaminated product such that light output from the LEDs is redirected.Because the LEDs are in close proximity to the PDLC film, in certainexample embodiments light output from the LEDs can be optically coupledinto the PDLC film, transmitting it through the cross-section of thefilm, and causing it to be emitted as dispersed or diffuse light in adirection substantially perpendicular to the light emitted by theside-firing LEDs. In certain example embodiments, the switchable filmcan be used to redirect and soften harsh LED light or otherwise modulatethe transmission of light through a glass system that includes such aswitchable film.

Another aspect of certain example embodiments relates to the use ofselective dispersive films whose properties are matched to the lightemitted from LEDs such that they serve as light dispersive agentssuitable for producing useful light in vehicle interior and/or otherapplications.

In certain example embodiments, a sunroof for a vehicle is provided.First and second glass substrates are substantially parallel to oneanother. LEDs are provided between the first and second substrates andare configured to emit light towards central regions of the sunroof. Alight scattering layer is provided between the first and secondsubstrates, with the light scattering layer having light scatterersdisposed therein, and with the light scatterers being sized and arrangedin the light scattering layer and relative to the LEDs such that lightreceived from the LEDs is redirected in a direction substantially normalto major surfaces of the first and second substrates.

In certain example embodiments, a window is provided. First and secondglass substrates are substantially parallel to one another. LEDs areprovided between the first and second substrates and are configured toemit light towards a center of the window. A light scattering layer isprovided between the first and second substrates, with the lightscattering layer having light scatterers disposed therein, and with thelight scatterers being sized and positioned relative to at least theLEDs such that light received from the LEDs is redirected in a directionsubstantially normal major surfaces of the first and second substrates.

In certain example embodiments, a window is provided. First and secondglass substrates are substantially parallel to one another. Side-firingLEDs are provided between the first and second substrates and areconfigured to emit light towards central regions of the window. Aliquid-crystal inclusive switchable film is provided between the firstand second substrates, with the liquid crystals of the liquid-crystalinclusive switchable film being sized such that light received from theLEDs is redirected in a direction substantially normal to major surfacesof the first and second substrates. The switchable film is operable inat least first and second modes, with the window in the first modehaving a visible transmission of less than 1%, and with the window inthe second mode having a visible transmission of 7-15%. The switchablefilm and the LEDs are operable independently of one another inconnection with the LEDs emitting light and the switchable filmcontrolling visible transmission therethrough.

Methods of making the above-described and/or other sunroofs, windows,etc., also are contemplated herein.

The features, aspects, advantages, and example embodiments describedherein may be combined to realize yet further embodiments.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

These and other features and advantages may be better and morecompletely understood by reference to the following detailed descriptionof exemplary illustrative embodiments in conjunction with the drawings,of which:

FIG. 1 is a partial cross-sectional view of a sunroof in accordance withcertain example embodiments;

FIG. 2 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the switchable layer stackshown in FIG. 1, in accordance with certain example embodiments;

FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the operation of aside-firing light emitting diode (LED) in accordance with certainexample embodiments;

FIG. 4 is a diagram showing the intensity fall-off of the emitted lightfrom a typical side-firing LED as a function of angle from the normalaxis of the LED emitter surface;

FIG. 5 shows different types of light scattering effects;

FIG. 6 is an example low-emissivity coating that may be used inconnection with certain example embodiments;

FIG. 7 is another partial cross-sectional view of a sunroof inaccordance with certain example embodiments;

FIG. 8 is a plan view of a sunroof according to certain exampleembodiments; and

FIG. 9 is a plan view of an article according to certain exampleembodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

Certain example embodiments relate to improvements to vehicle sunroofs.For example, certain example embodiments relate to vehicle sunroofs thatinclude switchable glazings and side-firing light emitting diodes(LEDs), and/or methods of making the same. The sunroofs of certainexample embodiments may help reduce the need for, and sometimescompletely even eliminate, the need for privacy shades provided invehicles. Additionally, or in the alternative, the sunroofs of certainexample embodiments may help reduce the need for, and sometimescompletely even eliminate, the need for separate vehicle cabin lightingelements.

By way of introduction, it is noted that some contemporary switchableglazings are being used in a variety of residential and commercialsettings. In this regard, switchable glazings have been used for privacypurposes in a wide variety of environments ranging from officeconference rooms to hotel and nightclub restrooms, for example. Someswitchable glazings have been used to convey information, e.g., fordirectional signage, advertising, and/or other purposes. Switchablematerials include liquid-crystal inclusive materials such as, forexample, polymer-dispersed liquid crystal (PDLC) materials,polymer-aligned liquid crystal (PALC) materials, and/or the like.Electrochromic and/or other materials may be used for switchablepurposes, as well.

The assignee has recognized that it is possible to incorporateswitchable glazings into sunroof applications. These switchable glazingsmay be made retractable and/or tilting so that they might serve in thiscapacity.

The assignee has, however, also noted that some switchable glazings aremore effective when it comes to scattering, as compared to completely ormostly blocking, light. Thus, the simple use of a switchable glazing ina sunroof application might not necessarily be sufficient to serve thelight blocking functionality of an ordinary sunroof. Moreover, thesimple use of a switchable glazing in a sunroof application might notnecessarily be sufficient to replace a more conventional privacy shade.

Despite these issues, the assignee has recognized that it is possible toadvantageously use the light scattering features of switchable materialsin switchable glazings to provide the type of diffuse and/or ambientlight that is desired for cabin interiors in connection with cabinlighting functionality, if suitable forms of light are in-coupled to theswitchable materials. Even though they generally are viewed as intense,highlight collimated, point light sources, side-firing LEDs and/or thelike may be used as sources of light in-coupled to the switchablematerials for these ambient, softly lighting and/or other purposes.Moreover, by using privacy glass for at least one substrate in theswitchable sunroof glazing, it is possible to enable a low but variablevisible transmission suitable for sunroof-type applications. Togetherwith the incorporation of the other materials in the overall switchablesunroof device stack, and optional use of switchable glazing itself, itmay in certain example embodiments be sufficient to provide the lowvisible transmission typical of current sunroofs, e.g., simulating theeffects of the privacy shade being open and closed.

Example privacy glass of the type that may be used herein is describedin, for example, U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,325,417; 6,927,186; 6,672,108;5,932,502; and 5,584,902, the entire contents of each of which arehereby incorporated by reference herein. More particularly, the specificglass compositions, methods of making he glass, and/or opticalproperties, described therein may be used in connection with certainexample embodiments. It will be appreciated that the term LED may referto inorganic or organic LEDs, which may be used in certain exampleembodiments.

Certain example embodiments use LEDs that are embedded between first andsecond glass substrates to illuminate part or all of a vehicle'sinterior space through indirect illumination and optionally though bothindirect and direct illumination. The indirect and/or directillumination may be accomplished using light emitted in shapes that arelarge areas and/or relatively smaller areas. These smaller areas may beappropriate for artistic details such as, for example, detailsappropriate for a logo, emblem, and/or the like; to provide informationsuch as via a gauge, warning symbol, and/or other indicia via apurposeful visual aid; etc.

Because the LEDs are embedded within the glass, they advantageously areprotected. For instance, the LEDs may be made substantively imperviousto most mechanisms that could cause a failure of the lighting systemsuch as, for example, mechanical wear, shocks, etc.; attacks from directflame, dirt, rain, snow, chemicals, gaseous species; and/or otherperturbations that otherwise could attack the lighting system(including, for example, the LEDs themselves, optical element used tocollect, direct, and/or disperse the light emitted from the LEDs, theelectrical circuitry used to power, monitor, and/or control the lightingsystem, etc.), etc.

In certain example embodiments, the combination of side-firing LEDs andclosely spaced transmissive/dispersive elements, including a PDLC filmthat can also be used independently of the LEDs to vary the transmissionof light through the glass laminate, allows the LEDs to be used asambient or mood lighting. Example switchable PLDC films suitable for usewith certain example embodiments have been available from Citala Films,Polytronix, Scienstry, Smart Films, and other providers, although itwill be appreciated that PDLC and/or other switchable films may beobtained from a wide variety of different sources. The LEDs also can beused as effective backlighting through select openings in otherwiseopaque areas used to inform the driver and/or passenger(s) of somesafety-related or other useful information that can be represented in avisual manner, without the harshness usually associated with pointsource LEDs.

Although many LED circuits involve top- or bottom-firing LEDs in thesesense that the LEDs are mounted to substrate circuits such that lightemitted therefrom is emitted normal to the surfaces of the substrates towhich the LEDs are attached (e.g., because of the intense point sourcenature of LEDs), as indicated above, certain example embodiments involveside-firing LEDs where light from the LEDs is emitted perpendicular tothe surface of the substrates to which the LEDs are attached. Theassignee recognized that if the light were somehow to impinge on anon-absorbing substance that also contained dispersing particles, thenthe light could be transmitted through a portion of the non-absorbingsubstance while another portion of the light could be dispersed awayfrom the LED emitting surface. It was further surmised that this light,if it could be redirected normal or substantially normal to the surfaceof the LEI) substrate after having been transmitted parallel through thenon-absorbing substance at least some distance, would be “less harsh” or“softer” than the light emitted from a top-firing LEI) and thereforeuseful as general ambient lighting within a vehicle, or as a moreuniform source of light for being emitted through shaped openings inotherwise coated (e.g., opaque) areas of the glass in the vicinity ofthe non-absorbing substances, Downward-facing LEDs also could be usedfor this latter purpose.

It was further recognized that the PDLC used for embedded switchableglass would be an excellent non-absorbing dispersive substance thatcould serve this purpose. Offset conditions between the LEDs and theside of the PDLC film exist that allow the light emitted from aside-firing LEDs to optically couple into the side of a PDLC film andtravel down a substantial distance into the PDLC film, while at the sametime allowing a percentage of the light to be emitted in a directionessentially 90 degrees to the emitted direction of the side-firing LED.Thus, a side-firing point source of light in one direction can beconverted to an essentially uniformly illuminated “softer” source oflight in a direction substantially perpendicular to the original emittedlight.

Referring now more particularly to the drawings in which like referencenumerals indicate like parts throughout the several views, FIG. 1 is apartial cross-sectional view of a sunroof in accordance with certainexample embodiments. The FIG. 1 example sunroof includes first andsecond glass substrates 102 and 104. As indicated above, the firstsubstrate 102 may comprise darker privacy glass. This may beadvantageous in term of its ability to more naturally conceal from thevehicle interior at least some of the control electronics provided aboveit. The second substrate 104 may be standard soda lime silica glass.

Black frit or paint 106 or the like is provided around a peripheral areaof the sunroof, e.g., to help hide electrical components such as, forexample, the LEDs and the circuitry that powers, monitors, and/orcontrols the LEDs and/or the switchable film. The black frit or paint106 is shown on an inner surface of the first substrate 102 in the FIG.1 example. It may, however, be provided on the outer surface of thefirst substrate 102 that is closest the vehicle interior in place of orin addition to, this arrangement. In certain example embodiments, blackfrit or paint additionally or alternatively may be provided on one orboth surfaces of the second substrate 104.

A low-emissivity (low-E) coating 108 is provided on the second surfaceof the glass substrate. Example low-E coatings are identified, and somediscussed in greater detail, below.

The switchable layer stack 110 is sandwiched between the first andsecond glass substrates 102 and 104. The first and second glasssubstrates 102 and 104 may be laminated to one another with theswitchable layer stack 110 therebetween using any suitable materialssuch as, for example, PVA, PVB, EVA, PET, PU, and/or the like.Interlayer material may be obtained from any suitable supplier such as,for example, Solutia, Huntsman, Dow Chemicals, and/or the like. In theFIG. 1 example, first and second PVB interlayers 112 and 114 are shownas laminating together the first and second glass substrates 102 and 104with the switchable layer stack 110 therebetween. Each PVB interlayer inthe FIG. 1 example may be provided to any suitable thickness such as,for example, 0.01-0.1 inches, more preferably 0.015-0.030 inches.

The entire stack shown in FIG. 1 may have two different dominant visibletransmissions. In a first mode of operation that corresponds to aprivacy mode of operation (e.g., a conventional privacy shade beingclosed), the visible transmission preferably is less than 10%, morepreferably less than 7%, more preferably less than 3%, and may be lessthan or equal to about 0.5% in certain example embodiments. In a secondmode of operation that corresponds to a light-transmissive mode (e.g., aconventional privacy shade being open), visible transmission preferablyis 3-30%, more preferably 5-20%, and most preferably 7-15%.

FIG. 2 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the switchable layer stack110 shown in FIG. 1, in accordance with certain example embodiments. Apolymer-based liquid-crystal inclusive material such as PDLC, PALC,and/or the like may be use as the functional layer 202. The functionalswitchable film 202 may be sandwiched between first and second carriersubstrates 204 and 206 that also support first and second conductivecoatings 208 and 210. The first and second conductive coatings 208 and210 may be transparent conductive coatings (TCCs) such as transparentconductive oxides (TCOs) in certain example embodiments. It will beappreciated, however, that because the visible transmissioncharacteristics of the sunroof application are not very demanding,better conductivity may be traded off for lower visibility in at leastcertain example embodiments. Suitable conductive coatings may includelayers comprising indium tin oxide (ITO), tin oxide, indium gallium zincoxide (IGZO), silver, and/or the like. First and second wire leads 212and 214 may be provided in electrical connection with the first andsecond conductive coatings 208 and 210.

FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the operation of aside-firing LED in accordance with certain example embodiments. As shownin FIG. 3, an LED 302 is provided outside the peripheral edge of theswitchable layer stack 110. The LED 302 is supported by a substratewhich, in the FIG. 3 example, is a Kapton substrate. It will beappreciated that the LEDs may be uniformly colored (e.g., red, green,blue) or differently colored. Similarly, tri-color and/or other LEDs maybe used in certain example embodiments. A color rendering index (CRI)matching layer may be provided on a major surface of the first substrate102, e.g., to help for differences in liquid crystal or other scatterersize and/or LED wavelength and thus help provide a desirable lightcoloration in the vehicle, to the extent that such cannot be tunedthrough LED color selection; scatterer size, shape, distribution;distance between the LEDs and the switchable film; etc.

Light from the LED 302 is emitted towards the switchable material 210,and the switchable material 210 in the switchable layer stack 110 may incertain example embodiments be used to collect and distribute the lightfrom the LED 302 to the cabin. The LED 302 is spaced apart from the edgeof the adjacent glass but is close to (and potentially in directphysical contact with) the switchable layer stack 110. The liquidcrystal elements in the switchable layer stack 110 are sized anddispersed in the switchable material 210, in order to create the desiredscattering effect and, thus, a desirable lighting effect. Furtherdetails regarding how the scattering is believed to operate are providedbelow.

With respect to spacing from the edge of the glass, in general, theLED's may be spaced 1-25 mm, more preferably 3-15 mm, and mostpreferably 5-10 mm from the edge of the glass. In general, position withrespect to the edge of the glass can become a concern if it is less thanabout 5-10 mm (and more often about 10 mm), e.g., when it comes tocertain lamination sealing operations. However, for many applications,spacing from the edge might not be a concern.

With respect to spacing from the edge of the switchable layer stack 110,in general, the LED's may be spaced no more than 5 mm, more preferablyno more than 3 mm, and still more preferably no more than 1-2 mm, fromthe switchable layer stack 110. In certain example embodiments, the LEDsmay be directly physically touching the switchable layer stack 110. Itwill be appreciated that the positioning may be adjusted based on thecharacteristics of the LEDs and/or the switchable material used. Certainexample embodiments may include a further substrate interposed here,e.g., to directly or indirectly enhance the coupling of light from theLED into the PDLC or the like film.

In general, providing the LEDs too close to the edge of the glass and/ortoo far from the switchable layer stack 110 may allow too much light toavoid entering into the switchable material 210 and/or to leak out fromthe edges of the assembly. Pushing the LEDs too far away from theswitchable material 210 may not allow enough light to enter into itwhich, in turn, may cause a drop-off in lighting towards the center ofthe sunroof, e.g., as less light is scattered to these regions becauseof the lower amount of light entering into the switchable material 210in the first place. In general, in certain implementations, the ambientlight entering into the vehicle will be brightest at the perimeter andfade towards the center of the switchable material 210, anyway.

Many side-firing LEDs rise to a maximum height of about 0.3 mm above thesubstrates on which they are mounted. Considering typical thicknessrequired from a PDLC material that may be used in the switchablematerial 210 and the minimal thickness increases provided by the firstand second conductive coatings 208 and 210, the height of each of thePET carriers 204 and 206 can be optimized to yield certain processingand/or performance advantages. For example, the LED substrate 304thickness may be selected to be the same approximate thickness as thefirst PET carrier substrate 204, e.g., such that the very top of the LED302 is substantially even with the top of the second PET carriersubstrate 206. This is advantageous in terms of the light capturing andredirecting abilities of the switchable layer stack 110, as well as themanufacturing of the stack from the standpoint of the laminating layers(e.g., PVB interlayers 112 and 114) being easily positioned and beingable to readily laminate together the substrates without significantthickness variations caused by major differences in thickness betweenthe PDLC and the LEDs.

The FIG. 4 diagram shows the intensity fall-off of the emitted lightfrom a typical side-firing LEI) as a function of angle from the normalaxis of the LED emitter surface. It can be seen that at 90 degrees fromthe normal axis, the intensity of the light from the example LED isessentially zero. However, certain example embodiments enable thisdiagram to in essence be turned substantially 90 degrees, such that thelight from a side-firing LED can be redirected into a top-firing LED.Furthermore, it can be seen in certain example embodiments that theintensity distribution of the light would be less of a point as seen inthe diagram and more of a flat top, thereby implying less glare in asingle direction.

Common experience suggests that the light produced from an LED, whenlooked at directly, is very intense. Therefore, although LEDs have manyadvantages over other sources of light (e.g., in terms of powerefficiency, lifetime, color selection, size, weight, etc.), LEDs bythemselves generally are not thought of for use in soft or ambientlighting applications. Thus, there would be a natural bias against usingLEDs in the interior of a vehicle (e.g., in connection with a domelight), unless substantial additional optical elements were provided(e.g., to diffuse or otherwise soften the light). Yet certain exampleembodiments enable side-firing LEDs to be used for ambient lighting bycoupling the light into a non-absorbing or slightly absorbing elementwith dispersive properties such as that found in PDLC films. Complexoptical elements may be provided but are not necessary in certainexample embodiments.

FIG. 5 shows different types of light scattering effects, and thefollowing discussion is provided as background in understanding why PDLCfilms or the like are particularly suited for dispersing LED light.Diffusion of light is a scattering phenomena, e.g., where the individualscattering events are in essence sufficiently random and dense to be“averaged out” into the commonly used terms of diffusion or dispersion.Optical scattering can be further classified as being either elastic orinelastic. Inelastic scattering, such as absorption or Brillionscattering, is a decay phenomenon in that some energy is lost. In theideal situation, elastic scattering does not involve the loss of energyand is preferred in the lighting scenarios contemplated herein.

Elastic scattering includes Rayleigh and Mie scattering, both of whichare subject to Maxwell's equations. However, they are qualitativelydifferent and differentiated, for example, by the size of the particlesthat do the scattering. Rayleigh scattering is caused by the interactionof light with tiny particles that are much smaller than the wavelengthsof light impinging on them. Rayleigh scattering in the ideal case issymmetric in that scattering occurs equally in the forward and backwarddirections. It is also very strongly dependent on the wavelength. Whenthe particles are as large as (or larger than) the wavelength of lightthey are interacting with, Mie scattering is said to occur. Miescattering in the ideal case is wavelength independent and occurs in theforward direction. Rayleigh scattering is why the sky appears blue, andMie scattering is why clouds appear white. If cloud particles weresmaller, and thus subject to Rayleigh scattering, the clouds wouldappear blue.

With respect to the technology described herein, if the liquid crystal(LC) particles in the PDLC were small enough to act as Rayleighscatterers, the light from an LED would not transmit in the forwarddirection because it would be scattered as much backwards as forwards.Furthermore, the light would be wavelength shifted because Rayleighscattering is highly dependent on wavelength. For instance, red LEDlight would look yellower when scattered by Rayleigh scatterers, yellowLED light would look bluer, blue LED light would shift towards ultraviolet, etc. The LC in a PDLC film or the like according to certainexample embodiments has a mean diameter that is about the same size asthe wavelength of light, namely, about 0.5 microns. This implies that inthe main the scattered light moves away from the source of light (andthus is transmitted), and the light does not wavelength shift. Theseproperties are desirable for the example applications described herein.It will be appreciated that if the LC droplets were smaller, they wouldnot work well (or potentially at all) as scatterers because they wouldnot transmit in the forward direction. Similarly, if they were muchbigger they would not work well (or potentially at all) as scatterersbecause they would absorb more and thus transmit less light. In certainexample embodiments, the LCs in the PDLC or other film have a meandiameter of 380-760 nm, more preferably 475-665 nm, and still morepreferably 500-600 nm, assuming that the LED emits generally whitelight. Although certain example embodiments are described in connectionwith switchable films, other scattering media that is not switchable maybe used in different example embodiments in place of, or in addition to,the switchable (e.g., PDLC, PALC, etc.) films discussed herein.

With these guiding principles, it becomes possible to appreciate thatthe performance of the lighting features may be improved or optimized byconsidering a variety of factors including, for example, the spacingbetween the LEDs and the edge of the switchable film, the density ofLEDs around the periphery of the sunroof (e.g., to achieve asufficiently uniform illumination), whether to including light couplingagents between the LEDs and the switchable film (e.g., to improve theefficiency of the light exiting from the LEDs and entering into theswitchable film), the simultaneous coupling of differently colored LEDs,the use of both top-firing and side-firing LEDs (e.g., to allow for bothdirect and ambient lighting), etc.

Out-coupling efficiency may improved by providing an opticalout-coupling layer stack (OCLS) or the like. See, for example, U.S.application Ser. No. 13/826,495, filed on Mar. 14, 2013, the entirecontents of which are hereby incorporated by reference herein. An OCLSlayer may be provided, for example, between the substrate 102 and theswitchable layer stack 110. In certain examples, such an OCLS layerincreased light out-coupling 30-40%.

Although FIG. 3 shows only one LED, it will be appreciated that the LEDsmay be provided in a densely packed string of LEDs. The spacing betweenadjacents LEDs in the string may be less than or equal to about 1 inch,preferably less than or equal to 0.75 inch, more preferably less than orequal to 0.5 inch, and still more preferably less than or equal to 0.25inch. The spacing may be determined in part based on how much ambientlight is desired, whether lenses or other optical elements are provided(e.g., to increase in-coupling effeciency with respect to the switchablefilm), etc.

Referring once again to the drawings, FIG. 6 is an example low-E coatingthat may be used in connection with certain example embodiments. TheFIG. 6 example low-E coating may be provided on the second surface ofthe sunroof in certain example embodiments. A first silicon-inclusivelayer is provided directly on and contacting the second substrate 104.This first silicon-inclusive layer may be an oxide and/or nitride, andit may help block sodium migration from the glass (e.g., during heattreatment) in certain example embodiments. A first layer comprising zincaluminum oxide 604 a is provided below the first layer comprising silver606 a. The first layer comprising zinc aluminum oxide 604 a helpsprovide a smooth layer for the silver to grow on and also helps with theoptical properties of the coating (e.g., by providing good coloration).A first layer comprising Ni, Cr, and/or Ti 608 a, and/or an oxidethereof, (e.g., NiCrOx), is provided over the first layer comprisingsilver 606 a and may help to protect the Ag, e.g., during heat treatmentand/or the like. A first layer comprising tin oxide 610 a is providedthereon. The FIG. 6 embodiment may be thought of as include a thicklayer comprising tin oxide split by a second silicon-inclusive layer 612a. “Breaking” the thick layer comprising tin oxide into first and secondlayers comprising tin oxide 610 a and 614 with the secondsilicon-inclusive layer may help with the overall optics of the stack.Alternatively, the FIG. 6 embodiment may be thought of as providing aprotective overcoat including first layer comprising Ni, Cr, and/or Ti608 a, the first layer comprising tin oxide 610 a, and the secondsilicon-inclusive layer 612 a. In any event, portions of the lowerAg-inclusive layer stack repeat, e.g., such that a second layercomprising zinc aluminum oxide 604 b is provided below the second layercomprising silver 606 b, and layers comprising Ni, Cr, and/or Ti 608 b,tin oxide 610 b, and silicon nitride 612 b are provided above the secondAg-inclusive layer 606 b. In the FIG. 6 example, each silicon-inclusivelayer comprises silicon nitride and each layer comprising Ni, Cr, and/orTi includes NiCrOx. It will be appreciated, however, that the same ordifferent materials may be used for the various layers in differentexample embodiments.

The FIG. 6 example low-E coating may be heat treated (e.g., heatstrengthened and/or thermally tempered) in certain example embodiments.Example thicknesses for certain heat treatable embodiments are providedin the table below:

Heat Treatable Examples Preferred More Preferred Example Layer Thickness(Å) Thickness (Å) Thickness (nm) Glass N/A N/A N/A Si₃N₄ 145-225 165-20519 ZnAlOx  85-130  95-118 11 Ag 60-95 68-87 8 NiCrOx 24-40 27-37 3 SnO₂328-495 370-455 41 Si₃N₄ 104-158 115-145 13 SnO₂  85-130  97-120 11ZnAlOx  95-143 105-132 12 Ag 60-95 68-87 7.5 NiCrOx 24-40 27-37 3 SnO₂269-405 303-372 34 Si₃N₄ 60-90 65-85 7.5

The same basic layer stack may be used for a non-heat treatable exampleembodiment. For instance, it may be possible to adjust the silver layerthickness and/or the thicknesses of the layers adjacent the silverlayers. With regard to the former, the lower silver-inclusive layerpreferably is 85-130 Å thick, and more preferably 96-118 Å thick, withan example thickness of 11 nm; and the upper silver-inclusive layerpreferably is 82-124 Å thick, and more preferably 92-114 Å thick, withan example thickness of 10 nm.

Other variations are possible. For example, a layer comprising titaniumoxide (e.g., TiO₂ or other suitable stoichiometry) may be provided belowthe first silicon-inclusive layer; the layer comprising ZnAlOx can bepreplaced with a layer comprising a layer comprising Ni, Cr, and/or Ti,and/or an oxide thereof (e.g., NiCrOx); the sub-stack comprising layersincluding SnO₂ and ZnAlOx can be replaced with a layer comprising Ni,Cr, and/or Ti, and/or an oxide thereof (e.g., NiCrOx); etc.

The FIG. 6 example embodiment is a double-silver layer stack in thesense that it include first and second layers comprising Ag 606 a and606 b. It will be appreciated that single-silver, triple-silver,quad-silver, and/or other layer stacks may be provided in differentexample embodiments. It also will be appreciated that this may beaccomplished by providing more or fewer ZnAlOx/Ag/NicrOx/SnO2 stacks. Incases where there are more of these stacks are provided, they may beinterrupted by silicon-inclusive layers, layers comprising titaniumoxide and/or niobium oxide, etc., e.g., to achieve desired opticalproperties. Thickness ranges, indices of refraction, and/or the like,may be tuned in these respects.

To provide enhanced UV blocking features (e.g., blockage of light havinga wavelength in the range of about 380-400 nm), additional layers may beadded to the low-E coating. For example, a dielectric layer (e.g., anyone or more of the layers comprising tin oxide in the example above) maybe “split” and an additional UV blocking layer may be added (e.g.,between successive layers of the split dielectric layer). The UVblocking layer may be of or include zinc oxide doped with bismuth (e.g.,ZriBiO or other suitable stoichiometry) or simply bismuth oxide (BiO) incertain example embodiments. In certain other example embodiments, theUV blocking layer may include silver oxide (e.g., AgO_(x) or othersuitable stoichiometry), as described, for example, in U.S. Pat. No.6,596,399, the entire content of which is hereby incorporated herein byreference.

As will be appreciated from the above, the low-E coating may be amulti-layer low-E coating including at least one infrared (IR)reflecting layer. The IR reflecting layer may comprise silver, and itmay be sandwiched between one or more dielectric layers. The low-Ecoating may be any suitable low-E coating including, for example, any ofthe low-E coatings described and/or illustrated in any of U.S. Pat. No.2009/0115922, 7,998,320, 7,771,830, 7,198,851, 7,189,458, 7,056,588, or6,887,575, the entire contents of each of which are all herebyincorporated herein by reference.

The low-E and/or UV-blocking features of certain example embodiments mayhelp protect the switchable film, circuits, and/or the like, e.g., fromincreased heating caused by exposure to the sun, etc.

As alluded to above, it may be desirable to use black frit or paint onthe second surface of the sunroof, e.g., to help hide electricalconnections, electronic components, and/or the like. It is noted,however, that it sometimes is difficult to apply frit or paint over alow-E coating or the like. FIG. 7 is a variation on the FIG. 1 examplethat helps address this issue. As can be seen from FIG. 7, black fit orpaint 106 is provided on the second surface. However, a low-E coating isnot directly provided thereon. Instead, a low-E PET layer 702 isprovided between the second substrate 104 and the switchable layer stack110. In order to help secure the low-E PET layer 702 to the switchablelayer stack 110 and laminate the entire assembly together, an optionaladditional laminating layer 704 is provided therebetween. It is notedthat in certain example embodiments the low-E PET layer 702 may beadhered more directly to the second glass substrate 104, potentiallyremoving the need for the PVB layer 114. A split silver XIR 70 low-Ecoating available from Eastman Chemicals, a XIR 70 HPS low-E coatingfrom Eastman Chemicals, and/or the like, may be used in this regard. Itwill be appreciated that modifications to the coloration of the low-Estack, the substrate, etc., may be desirable, e.g., because providing ablack material over low-E sometimes yields an undesirable orinconsistent coloration.

FIG. 8 is a plan view of a sunroof 800 according to certain exampleembodiments. Side-firing LEDs 302 are provided around the non-lightedperiphery 802 of the sunroof 800 in FIG. 7. As will be appreciated fromthe discussion above, the periphery 802 may have black frit or paintapplied thereto, e.g., to help conceal the circuitry, etc. In the FIG. 8example, the switchable layer stack 110 is spaced apart from the LEDs302 and, from a plan view perspective, within that outer ring of LEDs302. The side-firing LEDs 302 contact the switchable layer stack 110,and inner area 804 is illuminated. Thus, a substantial portion of theFIG. 7 example sunroof is seen as “glowing” from the diffusion of lightfrom the LEDs 302 through the switchable layer stack 110 and into tocabin (e.g., even though there might be an intensity fall-off). It willbe appreciated that if the side-firing LEDs 302 were used without thepresence of the switchable layer stack 110, the highly collimated pointsource nature of the LEDs 302 would in essence cause the emitted lightto go “straight through” the thickness of the sunroof from one side tothe other. However, by providing PDLC or the like inside of the LEDs302, the PDLC or the like acts as a waveguide or diffuser for creatingthe ambient light in the vehicle cabin.

FIG. 9 is a plan view of an article 900 according to certain exampleembodiments. FIG. 9 is similar to FIG. 8, except that the switchablelayer stack 110 is not provided across substantially the entirety of thearticle. It instead is provided along a narrow band interior to the LEDs302. This configuration results in a more uniform, more narrow glowingperimeter 902 inside the cabin, with inner and outer non-lighted areas904. However, because the interior of the article 900 is not switchable,the article might be used in other window applications. In this regard,the LEDs and/or switchable layer stack 110 may be provided in any shape,pattern, or general configuration, and the racetrack configuration isprovided by way of contrast with the FIG. 8 example embodiment. The FIG.9 article may, however, be used as a sunroof if a privacy shade wereused, or the like.

As indicated above, black frit or paint may be applied to the outerperipheral area. A portion of it may, however, be removed proximatedecorative image 906 (e.g., via laser etching, mechanical means, and/orthe like). A downward-facing LED could be provided proximate to thedecorative image 906 to backlight the image and create, for example, abright logo or the like. As will be appreciated from the above, artisticimages, informational indicators, and/or the like may be illuminated inthis way.

The substrates described herein may be heat treated (e.g., heatstrengthened and/or thermally tempered), and/or chemically tempered, incertain example embodiments. The terms “heat treatment” and “heattreating” as used herein mean heating the article to a temperaturesufficient to achieve thermal tempering and/or heat strengthening of theglass inclusive article. This definition includes, for example, heatinga coated article in an oven or furnace at a temperature of at leastabout 550 degrees C., more preferably at least about 580 degrees C.,more preferably at least about 600 degrees C., more preferably at leastabout 620 degrees C., and most preferably at least about 650 degrees C.for a sufficient period to allow tempering and/or heat strengthening.This may be for at least about two minutes, or up to about 10 minutes,in certain example embodiments.

Although FIGS. 8-9 show substantially ovular articles with substantiallyovular inner illuminated areas, it will be appreciated that the exampletechniques disclosed herein may be used in connection with differentarrangements. For instance, the articles may vary in size and/or shape,and the size and/or shape of the illuminated areas therein may vary aswell, e.g., so that they are the same or different shape. Moreover,certain example embodiments may include multiple discrete lightablezones (e.g., by creating separately activatable LEDs, etc.).

In certain example embodiments, the LEDs and/or the switchable film maybe used independently of one another. For example, the LEDs may beactivated when interior lighting is desired, whereas the switchable filmmay be activated when it is desirable to see through the sunroof, etc.In this regard, interior lighting may be provided by turning on the LEDsand turning off the switchable film (e.g., assuming that the off stateof the switchable film creates the desired scattering effects). In arelated regard; the side-firing LEDs may be activated independently ofsome or all downward facing LEDs used for symbol illumination or thelike. Different colored lights may be used for different symbols and/orthe dome light replacement. For instance, a more whitish light may beused for dome light replacement; gauge indicators may be blue, amber,white, etc.; logos may match “company colors” or the like; alert,warning, and/or other symbols may be green, yellow, orange, red, and/orthe like based on severity; etc.

Methods of making the above-described and/or other sunroofs, windows,etc., also are contemplated herein. For example, in certain exampleembodiments a method of making a window comprises: positioning aplurality of side-firing light emitting diodes (LEDs) around a peripheryof a first glass substrate, the LEDs being configured to emit lighttowards central regions of the window; providing a liquid-crystalinclusive switchable film, the liquid crystals of the liquid-crystalinclusive switchable film being sized such that light received from theLEDs is redirected in a direction substantially normal to major surfacesof the first and second substrates; and laminating together the firstsubstrate and a second glass substrate with the LEDs and theliquid-crystal inclusive switchable film therebetween such that thefirst and second substrates are substantially parallel to one another.The switchable film and the LEDs are made to be operable independentlyof one another in connection with the LEDs emitting light and theswitchable film controlling visible transmission therethrough, and theswitchable film is made to be operable in at least first and secondmodes, the window in the first mode having a visible transmission ofless than 1%, the window in the second mode having a visibletransmission of 7-15%.

Certain example embodiments exhibit an interesting aesthetic effect inthat the sunroofs may appear to glow if the vehicle is parked underneatha light pole or the like in the evening and when there is light comingfrom the pole.

Certain example embodiments have been described in connection with glasssubstrates. However, alternative substrate materials may be used inplace of one or more of the glass substrates. For instance, plasticsand/or the like may be suitable in certain example embodiments.

Although certain example embodiments have been described in connectionwith sunroofs for certain automotive applications, it will beappreciated that the techniques disclosed herein may find applicabilityto a wide range of products. For instance, the example techniquesdisclosed herein may be used in connection with sunroofs in cars,trucks, boats, tractor cabs, and/or the like. Similarly, the exampletechniques set forth herein may be used in other vehicle glassapplications such as, for example, side window, interior partition, rearwindow, and/or other type applications. The example techniques disclosedherein also may be used in connection with skylights and/or other typesof windows, doors, etc., where variable transmission and/or selectiveillumination from a diffuse light source is desirable. Thus, the exampletechniques described herein may be used in connection with any type ofwindow or glazing product in different example embodiments. Furthermore,in certain example embodiments, the use of side-firing LEDs couplinglight into PDLC films or the like may have application in the area ofappliances such as refrigerators, wine coolers, washers/dryers,stovetops, etc.

Different target applications may include different first and secondmode target transmission values. For instance, although the exampletransmission values provided above are desirable for at least somesunroof type applications, other applications may include differentfirst and/or second mode transmissions values. Side windows in a car,for instance, may have much higher first and/or second mode transmissionvalues, e.g., to conform to maximum tinting requirements or regulationsand/or minimum transmission requirements. In general, however, thetransmission associated with the first mode will be lower than thetransmission of the second mode, e.g., in accordance with normalswitchable glazing operations.

Although certain example embodiments have been described in connectionwith redirecting light in a direction normal, perpendicular, 90 degrees,or otherwise in relation to, a reference, or substantially in such arelation, it will be appreciated that certain example embodiments mayallow for some spread of the light, e.g., suitable for creating thediffuse, softer, ambient light indicated as being desirable in certainexample embodiments. In general, a major portion of the light will beemitted into the cabin at a direction less than the critical angle ofthe material (possible glass) adjacent the cabin. Thus, a major portion(if not all or substantially all) of the light in certain exampleembodiments preferably will be no more than 37 degrees from normal, morepreferably no more than 30 degrees from normal, and still morepreferably no more than 15-20 degrees from normal from this surface.

As used herein, the terms “on,” “supported by,” and the like should notbe interpreted to mean that two elements are directly adjacent to oneanother unless explicitly stated. In other words, a first layer may besaid to be “on” or “supported by” a second layer, even if there are oneor more layers therebetween.

In certain example embodiments, a sunroof for a vehicle is provided.First and second glass substrates are substantially parallel to oneanother. LEDs are provided between the first and second substrates andare configured to emit light towards central regions of the sunroof. Alight scattering layer is provided between the first and secondsubstrates, with the light scattering layer having light scatterersdisposed therein, and with the light scatterers being sized and arrangedin the light scattering layer and relative to the LEDs such that lightreceived from the LEDs is redirected in a direction substantially normalto major surfaces of the first and second substrates.

In addition to the features of the previous paragraph, in certainexample embodiments, the light scattering layer may be a liquid-crystalinclusive switchable film and the scatterers may be liquid crystals.

In addition to the features of the previous paragraph, in certainexample embodiments, the liquid crystals may have a mean diameter ofabout 0.5 microns.

In addition to the features of any of the three previous paragraphs, incertain example embodiments, the switchable film may comprise apolymer-dispersed liquid crystal (PDLC) film.

In addition to the features of any of the four previous paragraphs, incertain example embodiments, the switchable film may be operable in atleast first and second modes, e.g., with the sunroof in the first modepotentially having a visible transmission of less than 1%, and with thesunroof in the second mode potentially having a visible transmission of7-15%.

In addition to the features of any of the five previous paragraphs, incertain example embodiments, the switchable film may be sandwichedbetween first and second conductive coatings and first and secondcarrier substrates.

In addition to the features of the previous paragraph, in certainexample embodiments, the LEDs may be mounted on at least one substrate;bottom surfaces of the at least one substrate and the first carriersubstrate may be substantially even with one another when viewed incross-section; and top surfaces of the LEDs and the second carriersubstrate may be substantially even with one another when viewed incross-section.

In addition to the features of any of the seven previous paragraphs, incertain example embodiments, the LEDs may be side-firing LEDs,optionally spaced no more than 1-2 mm from adjacent edges of the lightscattering layer.

In addition to the features of any of the eight previous paragraphs, incertain example embodiments, the switchable film and the LEDs may beoperable independently of one another in connection with the LEDsemitting light and the switchable film controlling visible transmissiontherethrough.

In addition to the features of any of the nine previous paragraphs, incertain example embodiments, black paint or fit material may bedisposed, directly or indirectly, on the first and/or substrates, e.g.,proximate to the LEDs and/or control circuitry thereof.

In addition to the features of the previous paragraph, in certainexample embodiments, at least a portion of the black paint or fritmaterial may be removed to create a symbol, optionally with the symbolbeing back-lightable by diffuse light from one or more of the LEDsand/or direct light from a downward-facing LED.

In addition to the features of any of the 11 previous paragraphs, incertain example embodiments, the light scattering layer may extendacross substantially the entirety of the sunroof.

In certain example embodiments, a window is provided. First and secondglass substrates are substantially parallel to one another, LEDs areprovided between the first and second substrates and are configured toemit light towards a center of the window. A light scattering layer isprovided between the first and second substrates, with the lightscattering layer having light scatterers disposed therein, and with thelight scatterers being sized and positioned relative to at least theLEDs such that light received from the LEDs is redirected in a directionsubstantially normal major surfaces of the first and second substrates.

In addition to the features of the previous paragraph, in certainexample embodiments, first and second laminating interlayers arerespectively provided between the first substrate and the lightscattering layer, and between the second substrate and the lightscattering layer.

In addition to the features of either of the two previous paragraphs, incertain example embodiments, the light scattering layer may be aliquid-crystal inclusive switchable film and the scatterers may beliquid crystals.

In addition to the features of the previous paragraph, in certainexample embodiments, the liquid crystals may have a mean diameter of475-665 nm.

In addition to the features of any of the four previous paragraphs, incertain example embodiments, the switchable film may be operable in atleast first and second modes, with the window in the first modeoptionally having a visible transmission of less than 1%, and with thewindow in the second mode optionally having a visible transmission of7-15%.

In addition to the features of any of the five previous paragraphs, incertain example embodiments, the switchable film may be sandwichedbetween first and second conductive coatings and first and secondcarrier substrates; the LEDs may be mounted on at least one substrate;bottom surfaces of the at least one substrate and the first carriersubstrate may be substantially even with one another when viewed incross-section; and top surfaces of the LEDs and the second carriersubstrate may be substantially even with one another when viewed incross-section.

In addition to the features of any of the six previous paragraphs, incertain example embodiments, the LEDs may be side-firing LEDs, and lightreceived from the LEDs may be redirected in a direction substantiallynormal to the direction in which the light is emitted from the LEDs.

In addition to the features of any of the seven previous paragraphs, incertain example embodiments, the switchable film and the LEDs may beoperable independently of one another in connection with the LEDsemitting light and the switchable film controlling visible transmissiontherethrough.

In addition to the features of any of the eight previous paragraphs, incertain example embodiments, the LEDs may directly physically contactperipheral edges of the light scattering layer.

In addition to the features of any of the nine previous paragraphs, incertain example embodiments, black paint or fit material may bedisposed, directly or indirectly, on the first and/or substrates, e.g.,proximate to the LEDs and/or control circuitry thereof.

In addition to the features of the previous paragraph, in certainexample embodiments, at least a portion of the black paint or fitmaterial may be removed, e.g., to create a symbol.

In addition to the features of any of the 11 previous paragraphs, incertain example embodiments, the symbol may be back-lightable by diffuselight from one or more of the LEDs.

In addition to the features of any of the 12 previous paragraphs, incertain example embodiments, the symbol may be back-lightable by directlight, e.g., from a downward-facing LED.

In certain example embodiments, a window is provided. First and secondglass substrates are substantially parallel to one another. Side-firingLEDs are provided between the first and second substrates and areconfigured to emit light towards central regions of the window. Aliquid-crystal inclusive switchable film is provided between the firstand second substrates; with the liquid crystals of the liquid-crystalinclusive switchable film being sized such that light received from theLEDs is redirected in a direction substantially normal to major surfacesof the first and second substrates. The switchable film is operable inat least first and second modes, with the window in the first modehaving a visible transmission of less than 1%, and with the window inthe second mode having a visible transmission of 7-15%. The switchablefilm and the LEDs are operable independently of one another inconnection with the LEDs emitting light and the switchable filmcontrolling visible transmission therethrough.

In addition to the features of the previous paragraph, in certainexample embodiments, the liquid crystals may have a mean diameter of475-665 nm and/or the LEDs may be spaced no more than 5-10 mm apart fromthe nearest peripheral edges of the light scattering layer.

In addition to the features of either of the two previous paragraphs, incertain example embodiments; the switchable film may be sandwichedbetween first and second conductive coatings and first and secondcarrier substrates; the LEDs may be mounted on at least one substrate;bottom surfaces of the at least one substrate and the first carriersubstrate may be substantially even with one another when viewed incross-section; and top surfaces of the LEDs and the second carriersubstrate may be substantially even with one another when viewed incross-section.

In addition to the features of any of the three previous paragraphs, incertain example embodiments, black paint or frit material may bedisposed, directly or indirectly, on the first and/or substratesproximate to the LEDs and/or control circuitry thereof, and at least aportion of the black paint or frit material may be removed to create asymbol or the like, with the symbol optionally being back-lightable bydiffuse light from one or more of the LEDs and/or by direct light from adownward-facing LED.

In certain example embodiments a method of making a window comprises:positioning a plurality of side-firing light emitting diodes (LEDs)around a periphery of a first glass substrate, the LEDs being configuredto emit light towards central regions of the window; providing aliquid-crystal inclusive switchable film; the liquid crystals of theliquid-crystal inclusive switchable film being sized such that lightreceived from the LEDs is redirected in a direction substantially normalto major surfaces of the first and second substrates; and laminatingtogether the first substrate and a second glass substrate with the LEDsand the liquid-crystal inclusive switchable film therebetween such thatthe first and second substrates are substantially parallel to oneanother. The switchable film and the LEDs are made to be operableindependently of one another in connection with the LEDs emitting lightand the switchable film controlling visible transmission therethrough,and the switchable film is made to be operable in at least first andsecond modes, the window in the first mode having a visible transmissionof less than 1%, the window in the second mode having a visibletransmission of 7-15%.

While the invention has been described in connection with what ispresently considered to be the most practical and preferred embodiment,it is to be understood that the invention is not to be limited to thedisclosed embodiment, but on the contrary, is intended to cover variousmodifications and equivalent arrangements included within the spirit andscope of the appended claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method of making a window, the methodcomprising: positioning a plurality of side-firing light emitting diodes(LEDs) around a periphery of a first glass substrate, the LEDs beingconfigured to emit light towards central regions of the window;providing a liquid-crystal inclusive switchable film, the liquidcrystals of the liquid-crystal inclusive switchable film being sizedsuch that light received from the LEDs is redirected in a directionsubstantially normal to major surfaces of the first and secondsubstrates; and laminating together the first substrate and a secondglass substrate with the LEDs and the liquid-crystal inclusiveswitchable film therebetween such that the first and second substratesare substantially parallel to one another, wherein: the switchable filmand the LEDs are operable independently of one another in connectionwith the LEDs emitting light and the switchable film controlling visibletransmission therethrough, and the switchable film is operable in atleast first and second modes, the window in the first mode having avisible transmission of less than 1%, the window in the second modehaving a visible transmission of 7-15%.